Vans vs Converse for Lifting Is the Classic Choice Better
It is the age old question for lifters in California: Vans versus Converse. I have used both for my leg days and I honestly cannot decide which one I prefer. The Vans have that waffle sole which feels a bit grippier on the platform but the Converse have a thinner sole which I like for deadlifts.
I have noticed that the Converse seem to tear at the sides much faster than the Vans do. I also find that the Vans are a bit more comfortable for just walking around the gym between sets. However the classic look of a high top Chuck Taylor is hard to beat for that old school powerlifting vibe.
Is the classic choice actually better than a dedicated lifting shoe? I see some of the strongest guys in the world still lifting in twenty dollar flats. I would love to hear which one you guys swear by and if you think the newer pro models are worth the extra cash.
I'm firmly in the Vans camp for deadlifts. That flat, grippy waffle sole just feels so stable for me. My feet don't feel like they're sinking into foam like with running shoes. For squats, it's a bit of a toss-up, but I still lean Vans.
Converse all the way. Been wearing Chucks for lifting since high school. They're cheap, durable, and give you that bare-bones ground feel. Plus, they look cool, which is half the battle, right?
CaliCutter, I totally get what you mean about the waffle sole on Vans. It's a game-changer for stability. I find the arch support in Vans slightly better too, which helps me feel more planted, especially on heavier lifts. Have you tried both high and low tops?
Honestly, for most folks, the difference between Vans and Converse is negligible. Both offer a flat, stable platform. It really just comes down to personal preference for fit and aesthetics. Don't overthink it, just lift heavy.
It's Converse for me. The OG lifting shoe. Simple, flat, zero drop. Perfect for getting that raw ground feel. Why complicate things with anything else? Plus, they're usually cheaper than Vans here in the UK.
I've switched to barefoot for deadlifts entirely, but for squats, I still occasionally grab my Vans. The rigidity of the sole on Vans feels a bit more supportive than Converse, especially when I'm pushing big weight. It's a subtle difference, but I notice it.
ngl, I just go with whatever's on sale. Last pair were Vans, before that Converse. Can't say I noticed a massive performance difference. Both are solid choices for a flat-soled shoe.
I'm a Converse high-top loyalist. They just feel right for both squats and deadlifts. The canvas isn't as stiff as some Vans models, which allows for a bit more natural foot splay, especially during sumo deadlifts.
While I appreciate the sentiment for both, if you're serious about lifting heavy, invest in proper weightlifting shoes. Romaleos or Adipowers will always outperform Vans or Converse for squats. For deadlifts, sure, flat shoes work, but there are better options.
I'm a fan of the classic look, so Converse win for me. Functionally, they're both solid for a flat shoe. But there's something about lacing up Chucks that just feels right before a big lift. It's tradition!
It depends on the Vans model. Some of their skateboarding shoes have a slightly thicker sole which isn't ideal, but the classic Authentics or Eras are very similar to Converse in terms of flatness. Pay attention to the specific model.
I've tried both, and honestly, the biggest factor for me was how they fit my foot shape. Vans tend to be a bit narrower, while Converse are wider. If your shoes are uncomfortable, it'll affect your lifts more than a slight sole difference.
For me, it's about the feel. Vans feel a bit more substantial, almost like a lightweight boot, whereas Converse are more like a second skin. Both are good, it's just what you prefer underfoot. I use Vans for heavy squats and Converse for lighter, more dynamic warm-ups.
If you're training raw, the difference is minimal. If you're competing in powerlifting, you might want to look at IPF-approved shoes. But for general gym use, either is fine. Just make sure the sole isn't squishy.
I prefer Vans simply because they seem to last longer. My Converse always rip at the side after a year or so of heavy use, especially around the toe box. Vans' canvas seems a bit more robust.